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What is Mulberry Acres?

~ from our Founder, Mandy Kocevar

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As a child, I could always be found roaming the farm, snacking on wild mulberries, followed by a parade of cows, barn cats, and a dog or two. Those sun-soaked days are some of my fondest memories. One taste of a mulberry and I am transported back there. That's how Mulberry Acres got its name.

 

I have long since dreamed of one day creating a place of refuge for animals in need and recently that dream came true. In March 2023, my family and I began welcoming rescued and surrendered companion birds into our home.

 

Our mission is simple: provide lifelong and compassionate care for companion birds in need while educating the public about responsible avian ownership. We strive to create a world where all feathered friends are treated with love and respect.

 

Because of the large amount of companion birds needing re-homed each year -- mostly due to a lack of education in avian behavior and husbandry -- we quickly outgrew our in-home space. In January, 2024, we purchased Meadowlane Farm in Brighton, Michigan to begin expanding the sanctuary. We hope to welcome the public to visit our flock and learn about these sensational birds very soon.

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Head over here to check out the farm and see how you can help Mulberry Acres create the sanctuary of our birds' dreams!

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Meet The Team and Board Members

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Mandy Kocevar

Founder, Executive Director, President of the Board
 

For 30 years, Mandy has cared for animals through fostering, wildlife rehabilitation, training service dogs, and leading animal awareness programs in schools. Now she devotes herself full-time to Mulberry Acres Rescue.

With a background in web development, social media marketing, publishing, and dynamic storytelling, she combines hands-on care with the skills to grow the rescue’s reach and impact. 


When not at the rescue, Mandy writes speculative fiction novels. You can find her current work at www.mgbuehrlen.com

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Dominique G.

Volunteer Coordinator & Animal Care

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Dominique brings creativity and care to every corner of Mulberry Acres Rescue. With a background in landscape design and leading a maintenance crew, she oversees our property’s beautiful outdoor spaces while coordinating our incredible team of volunteers.

 

Dominique also crafts the enrichment toys and foraging bowls that keep our parrots happy and engaged. Though new to parrot husbandry, she’s embraced it with remarkable dedication and has become an invaluable part of our board and daily operations.

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Jon Beebe 

Senior Board Advisor

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An award-winning global marketing executive, Beebe has crafted inventive and memorable advertising campaigns for more than 20 years. His corporate career spans notable roles at Epsilon, General Motors and Ford, where his creative storytelling and innovative strategies earned widespread recognition.

 

He is currently the Founder of QuirkWerk, LLC, a marketing, advertising and technology consulting company.

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Jay K.

Official Bird Wrangler

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Jay brings energy and enthusiasm to every part of the day at Mulberry Acres. He helps prepare nutritious meals for the flock, keeps supplies organized and labeled, and assists with errands. Jay also spends time engaging the parrots in enrichment and social time.

 

Outside the rescue, Jay is a passionate musician and talented drummer, and enjoys writing his own music. 

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Joel Kocevar

Co-Founder, Facilities and Safety Director

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Joel oversees the safety, maintenance, and operation of Mulberry Acres Rescue. From designing enclosures to keeping equipment running smoothly, Joel works hard behind the scenes so the crew can focus on rehabilitation and care.

 

Joel's 25+ years of experience in engineering, trades, and service work helps ensure Mulberry Acres is a safe, efficient, and welcoming place for all. 

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Claudia C.

Intake Coordinator & Animal Care Advisor

Secretary of the Board

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With a strong background in biology and veterinary medicine, Claudia ensures each bird receives the highest level of care from arrival through rehabilitation or adoption. 

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Claudia's experience spans exotic animal rescue, laboratory research, large animals, and clinical veterinary support. She is also passionate about education, community outreach, and strengthening policies that promote ethical and transparent animals welfare practices. 

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Samantha C.

Animal Care & Facility Operations

Samantha keeps Mulberry Acres running smoothly behind the scenes. With a professional background in cleaning and organization, she ensures our facility stays spotless, well-stocked, and welcoming for both birds and humans alike.

 

From preparing meals and refreshing enclosures to maintaining the daily flow of care, Samantha’s passion for order and efficiency helps create a safe, comfortable environment for every member of our flock.

The Un-Feathered Flock

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Sunny - Boarder Collie

BARK Ranger

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Nova Jane - Tortie

Barn Patrol

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Mazie - Mastiff

BARK Ranger

Open by appointment only

Located in Brighton, Michigan 

Text Only Number: 810-221-1077‬

Voice Number: 810-221-1066

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